Offense

Months ago, this would have been considered one of the best quarterback matchups of the year between Denver’s Russell Wilson and Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson. But that certainly isn’t the case now. Wilson has statistically been one of the worst quarterbacks in the league this season, throwing only eight touchdowns. Meanwhile, Jackson has been one of the best, totaling 20 touchdowns. Jackson and the Ravens have one of the top offenses in the league, 25 points per game compared to the Broncos’ 14.3. 

Advantage: Ravens 

Defense 

These are two of the better defenses in the NFL, with the Broncos in the top five of nearly every statistical category and the Ravens having a bend-don’t-break defense. The Broncos are coming off one of their worst performances of the season, though, allowing the Panthers to total 23 points and 349 total yards. The Ravens have issues too, especially in the passing game. They rank second in the league in rushing defense (82 yards per game), but are 27th in passing defense (253.4 yards per game). 

Advantage: Broncos  

Special teams

The Ravens always have one of the top special teams units in the league, thanks to head coach John Harbaugh, who was a long-time special teams coach. In a game that could be close, it could come down to the two teams’ kickers and Baltimore has arguably the best kicker in the NFL over the last decade in Justin Tucker. In his career, Tucker is 72% from 50-plus yards. Denver’s Brandon McManus is 54%. If this one comes down to a game-winning field goal, it’s clear the Ravens have the upper hand. 

Advantage: Ravens

Coaching 

Harbaugh is considered one of the best coaches in the NFL, holding a 58% winning percentage during his 15-years as the Ravens’ head coach. Meanwhile, Nathaniel Hackett might be out of just one season in Denver, as the Broncos continue to fall apart with little to no improvement week-to-week. Harbaugh and the Ravens has the clear edge in this one. 

Advantage: Ravens 

Intangibles 

The Ravens are coming off one of their most disappointing losses of the season, falling to the Jaguars. And the Broncos are coming off their largest defeat of the season the Panthers. Baltimore has a lot more to play in this one as a true contenders in the AFC and wanting to bounce back after last week. The Broncos have little to play for with only six games remaining. 

Advantage: Ravens